It is bittersweet that our time at East Rockaway High School is coming to an end. Being in the same building with the same people for six years not only provides you with so much comfort and creates friendships that will last a lifetime, but this place has become a second home to so many people. 

Over the last six years, I have been provided with so many opportunities to get involved and have had some incredible experiences. Joining the Gull sophomore year was one of the best decisions I have made, and I am so grateful that I was able to serve as the President for my Senior Year. Writing for the Gull and collaborating with other students, whether upperclassmen or underclassmen, has allowed me to have a bigger voice in the school and meet new people. More importantly, many articles have allowed me to see things from a teacher’s perspective, and I got an insight to what the behind the scenes of ERHS looks like, that most students don’t take into consideration and appreciate enough. 

If I have one piece of advice for underclassmen and incoming students, it would be don’t be afraid to use your voice. I have learned here the importance of advocating for yourself, for your peers, and for something you strongly believe in. Standing up in front of a group of people can be intimidating, but when it’s something you feel strongly about, it is important to make it known. Ultimately, having the power to stand up for what you believe in will take you far as you leave high school. 

An extra special thank you to Mrs. Parasmo, Ms. Horvath, and Mrs. Perrone for making these last three years at the Gull so memorable. I’ll miss spending my Friday mornings meeting with the staff and discussing all the exciting events happening in our school and the real world. 

I can’t wait to see all that the Gull accomplishes over the next few years! 

Signing Off –

Kirsten Carman

President 2022-23